36 A HOME VEGETABLE-GARDEN 



even and fine for smooth, straight, unbranched 

 root growth. A rake aids in finishing the surface 

 for the finest seeds, but it scarcely earns its pur- 

 chase otherwise. 



The ten-cent store will also assist in furnishing 

 utensils; a small shovel, a pair of shears, a long- 

 handled metal fork, a trowel, a tablespoon, and a 

 tin cup. In addition to these, procure a short- 

 handled pointed shovel or a spading fork, a 

 sprinkling can, and two pails, a small one for 

 distributing extra fertilizer and a larger one for 

 carrying water. With these, the supply of tools 

 is complete enough. 



All garden supplies must be ready at planting 

 time. Seeds should be selected early, varieties 

 chosen with care, amounts decided on, and the 

 order sent to a reliable seed house long before they 

 will be needed. That will insure the best seeds 

 possible. Sometimes seeds of the best varieties 

 and the highest quality may be entirely sold even 

 before March opens. Early purchase will also 

 allow time for testing germination. Look out for 

 all other supplies while there is time. Save all the 

 soot from every smoke pipe on the place. Store it 

 where it is dry. That will prevent waste, and it 

 can then be found, also, when needed. Have ready 

 a quantity of tobacco refuse. Tobacco dust or 

 scrap is as valuable in the care of the seeds and 

 plants as the potato hook is in the care of the gar- 

 den. Sweepings may often be obtained at cigar 



